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Since 2019, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has appointed so-called Startup Liaison Officers (SLOs) at six embassies and consulates. They are intended to support the internationalisation of Dutch start-ups and scale-ups. In doing so, they also promote the Dutch start-up and scale-up ecosystem internationally, enhancing its international appeal (to businesses, talent, financiers, etc.).
In order to provide a more precise picture of the initial experiences with the SLO function, Dialogic has carried out an interim evaluation on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This evaluation addresses three main questions: what value does the SLO function add, what are any potential obstacles, and how can this value potentially be increased?
Based on our analyses, the overall conclusion is that the specific focus on internationalisation of Dutch start-ups and scale-ups, with a view to the future earning capacity of the Netherlands, is justified. Compared to competing countries, efforts in terms of budget and manpower in the Netherlands are still modest. Although the SLOs are still in the early stages and have been affected by the COVID-19 crisis, they appear to serve a useful function in the internationalisation of Dutch start-ups and scale-ups, as well as in promoting the Dutch start-up and scale-up ecosystem internationally. The essence of the function - although implemented differently at different posts - is to inform and connect with key players in the local ecosystem. The target audience appreciates the services provided.
Our main recommendation is to continue the specific focus on key posts relevant to start-ups and scale-ups that are internationalising. We recommend completing the experiment with the six SLOs at least and taking another 2-3 years to decide whether to institutionalise the SLO function or not.
Interested in learning more about this evaluation? Ask Pim den Hertog or download the full report here.